Cycling: Is it time to swap four wheels for two?

Global oil price volatility, exacerbated by regional conflicts, frequently forces a re-evaluation of national transport strategies and fuel consumption. Cycling emerges as a viable alternative, though its adoption varies significantly based on cultural, political, and environmental factors. In the Netherlands, a deep-rooted cycling culture, bolstered by post-war grassroots activism, serves as a model for urban planning. Conversely, Berlin illustrates the "bike-lash" phenomenon, where cycling infrastructure faces intense political opposition and funding cuts due to the automobile's status as a symbol of individual freedom. While cycling offers clear physical and mental health benefits, urban riders face respiratory risks from pollution, necessitating data-driven route planning. Furthermore, emerging economies in the Middle East are integrating cycling into modern transport networks to improve livability, provided that infrastructure is adapted to local climate challenges like extreme heat.